A wave of sorrow swept over the Christian faithful as they gathered to bid farewell to Elder Nuhu Eli-shama, a revered instructor, auto engineer, businessman, and devoted family man. The burial took place at the Christian cemetery in Gudu, Abuja, marking the end of a life filled with dedication and service. Elder Nuhu Eli-shama was the beloved husband of Mrs. Precious Vivian Owei Eli-shama, former Head of Protocol at the Bayelsa State Liaison Office in Abuja, and State Coordinator of NEPAD Bayelsa State.
The solemn ceremony saw attendees from Borrong families of Demsa LGA, Adamawa State, and the Sangana-Akassa Community of Brass LGA. Officiating ministers Pastor Bola Adetola and Pastor Bola Aganaba offered words of comfort and reflection, drawing from Hebrews 9:27 to remind the gathering of the inevitability of death and the hope of eternal life through Christ. “Elder Nuhu Eli-shama is not dead but asleep, as stated in the word of God,” affirmed Pastor Adetola.
Following the burial, a thanksgiving service was held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, House of Destiny Parish, Mabushi. Pastor Bola Adetola, speaking on the topic “Faith Comes by Hearing,” urged the congregation to remain steadfast in their faith despite life’s challenges. He referenced 1 Corinthians 15:35, emphasizing that faith leading to eternal salvation comes from hearing and living by the gospel of Christ.
At a service of songs held at RCCG HoD Parish in Abuja, Mr. Sam Atasia Oburu, former Chief Press Secretary to the Bayelsa State government and business partner to Mrs. Vivian Eli-shama, praised the late Elder Nuhu for his devotion, kindness, courage, and intelligence. “His advice and wealth of knowledge will be greatly missed,” said Oburu.
Elder Nuhu’s first son, Mr. Jesse Eli-shama, expressed his grief and shock at his father’s sudden passing after a brief illness and recovery progress.
“I will miss him greatly and promise to uphold the values he instilled in me,” Jesse shared.
In a heartfelt tribute, Mrs. Vivian Owei Eli-shama remembered her husband as a staunch believer in humanity and a strong supporter of her visions. She expressed her gratitude to God for the journey so far, despite her deep shock and disbelief over his death.
“I pray for strength to live without him and find solace in God and the children he left behind,” she said.
The ceremony drew numerous dignitaries and groups who came to pay their last respects. Among them were the St. Urhobo family, Dr. Ayibatonye Owei (former Commissioner for Health), Mr. Biriyai Okpurukhre representing the Moko-Ama and Sangana families, and the management team of Red Sapphire Group led by Mr. Ono Akpe, DG Prosperity Cup. Lady Doris Alagoa, former Bayelsa State Liaison Officer, and other officials from the Abuja Liaison Office were also in attendance.
Elder Nuhu Eli-shama’s siblings, alongside those of his wife, including Mrs. Patience Igbosi, Engr. Tonworio Owei, Mrs. Ingonabo Maureen Amada, Barr. Oyanbo Peace Owei, and Mrs. Blessing Tari Horsfall, stood united in grief and support. The Mbula/Adamawa Community in FCT, P-H family, LFC family, RCCG family, GGSS Harbour Road PH 1983 Alumni Abuja (North), RGA family, Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship, Lady Susie, a family friend and correspondent for Radio Bayelsa and numerous friends and well-wishers were in attendance.
